Laguna Beach flood victims who are trying to “dig out” mud from inside their houses and off their properties are in need of heavy equipment, said a council member, who sent out an urgent message earlier this week.

“I’m afraid shovels are not working,” said Elizabeth Pearson, who urged friends and colleagues to provide cash donations to assist in a situation she called “urgent.” “People had or have mud up to four feet in their homes. All their belongings were destroyed: furniture, beds, dressers, clothes … everything. I repeat, shovels (even in quantity) are not doing the job. And now, it’s raining again.”

Of 48 families affected by flooding, 18 families have been displaced and 33 homes damaged, according to the center’s executive director, Donna Valenti.

So many are in need, the center appointed disaster veteran Ann Quilter as volunteer disaster relief coordinator.

Victims and donors are encouraged to call the center at 949 497-7121 or 949 212-9155. Clothing donations can be made at the Assistance League Turnabout Thrift Store, 526 Glenneyre Street Laguna Beach, CA 92651.

Benefit Sale for Flood-Stricken Artists

Laguna Canyon artists will be selling their wares from canyon studios this Saturday, Jan. 8, between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Artists who have lost either their homes or studios or both will offer some of their inventory for sale in the studios still standing. “If you wish to support local artists, I cannot think of a better way to do so,” said a friend who forwarded the message.

Lack of Resources at Animal Shelter

The city’s animal shelter, which was due to be closed next month for renovation, closed early due to severe flooding from the Dec. 23 storm. Now, the temporary animal shelter is in desperate need of dog or cat beds, blankets, towels and dog and cat toys, according to shelter volunteer Nancy Goodwin.

Those wishing to contribute can leave donations at the new temporary location, 2093 Laguna Canyon Road, said Goodwin.

Employer Seeks Aid for Worker

Sally Rapuano, who helps run the La Playa Center preschool at the Boys & Girls Club, also distributed an appeal on behalf of flood-displaced employee Teresa Dominguez, whose family lost their belongings.

Rapuano asked friends to make donations to the family through a Wells Fargo account established in their name. “Friends have been supporting them as they stayed first at the Aliso Creek Inn and now the Hotel Riviera,” said Rapuano, who was looking for leads on a one-bedroom apartment renting for under $